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(Last updated: 12 Jul 2007)
Overview
Australia has an international reputation as a reliable and consistent supplier of high quality, fresh, safe, clean and healthy seafood and aquaculture products.
The greatest international demand is for high quality, high value species such as rock lobster, prawn, abalone and Southern Bluefin tuna. This encompasses the wild catch, aquaculture, processing and, retail sectors.
Although the export market remains strong, one of the greatest issues facing the seafood industry at present is the pressure of meeting market demand and the need to maintain a sustainable marine ecosystem. Both the industry and government are working together to address this issue.
As a result the future growth in seafood exports is likely to include value-adding activities that include improved packaging and product differentiation and the increased production of high-value species through methods such as aquaculture.
Key opportunities
Globally, consumers are demanding quality, fresh, clean and nutritious food products. Australian seafood is renowned for its high quality and is more attractive because of Australia’s clean environmental image. Exporters are encouraged to leverage these aspects in their marketing.
Consumer interest, for example, has increased in seafood that is marketed for its healthy properties such as protein, iron, low cholesterol and Omega3 oils. This is also true of seafood that highlights Australia’s pristine waters and environment.
Consumers in markets like Taiwan and Japan focus on a product’s freshness, which is reflected by the expanding market of live products. Demand for frozen ‘fresh’ products is also on the ‘up’.
Markets which present continuing opportunities for the Australian seafood industry include:
- Japan
- Hong Kong
- USA
- China
- Taiwan
Opportunities are available in Europe for crustaceans such as lobster and prawns with possibilities to also develop niche markets for high quality fish.
How can we help you?
With a worldwide network of highly experienced and qualified staff, Austrade provides a number of dedicated and tailored services to Australian exporters.
Austrade offers practical advice, market intelligence and ongoing support (including financial) to Australian businesses looking to develop international markets. Austrade also provides advice and guidance on overseas investment and joint venture opportunities, and helps put Australian businesses in contact with potential overseas investors.
For further information please contact Austrade on 13 28 78 or email info@austrade.gov.au.
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